Raiden Alaric

  Another weekend, another date. Well, date might be a strong word, but that’s what it looks like to anyone paying attention, which is exactly the point.

  Ella picked the spot again, and this time it was the shopping district. I wasn’t really surprised, considering she probably hadn’t had a chance to do something as normal as shopping in a long time. My best guess is that they have maids who will go out to grab what they need.

  She was already waiting for me at the entrance of some high-end boutique when I arrived, looking way too put together for something as simple as shopping. She was wearing a long, dark teal floral dress that hugged her figure a little too well, with criss crossed straps showing just enough skin to make more than a few people walking by give her a double take. The high slit on the side didn’t exactly help either.

  For a second, I had to remind myself to act normal. I couldn’t help the way my eyes traced the way the dress clung to her waist, and how her long hair framed her shoulders. She caught me staring and gave me a pointed look, like she knew exactly what kind of reaction she’d get from me.

  I gave her a lazy wave as I approached. “Fancy meeting you here.”

  She arched an eyebrow, not even bothering to hide her amusement. “You’re late.”

  “Fashionably,” I shot back, glancing around at the pristine displays in the shop windows. “You really didn’t have to go all out, you know.”

  She just gave me a cool, almost dismissive look. “It’s just a dress.”

  “Yeah? Well, it’s definitely... something.” I shrugged, playing it off. No way I was letting her think she’d thrown me off.

  A tiny smirk tugged at her lips, like she could see right through me. “You make it sound like it’s a problem.”

  I scoffed. “Problem? Nah, just didn’t realize we were trying to make the entire shopping district gawk at you.”

  She rolled her eyes but didn’t bother denying it, and I couldn’t help but notice the slight flush on her cheeks.

  Then she gave me a quick once-over, clearly unimpressed. “And here I thought you might put some effort into your outfit.”

  I made a noise of mock offense, clutching my chest dramatically. “Excuse you? You mean to tell me you’re not impressed by this absolute masterclass in casual fashion?”

  She raised an eyebrow, unamused.

  I stepped back and gestured down at myself with both hands. “Observe. Black leather sneakers with white soles, classic, understated, but classy enough to give a polished vibe without screaming tryhard.” I wiggled a foot like I was showing off a rare collectible.

  “Then we’ve got fitted navy-blue chinos, clean and sharp, with just enough taper to show off that I actually have legs and not just sticks. Paired with a crisp white henley that says ‘I might care about style but also might not give a damn.’”

  She looked like she was fighting a smile, but I wasn’t done.

  “And the piece de resistance, an open charcoal cardigan with textured stripes. It says ‘I’m cozy but I’m also too good to wear anything without some flair.’ It’s comfort and style in one devastating package.”

  Ella folded her arms, trying not to look amused. “You’re insufferable.”

  I grinned. “That’s just because you can’t handle how good I look.”

  She rolled her eyes, but I caught the slight curl of her lips, and I knew I’d gotten to her.

  She led the way into one of the boutique stores, barely giving me time to brace myself for the explosion of color and fabric. It was one of those places where the price tags didn’t even bother showing numbers, they just assumed you knew it was expensive.

  Ella started moving through the racks like she was born to do it, checking fabrics and examining patterns with a practiced eye. I leaned against one of the display counters, making a show of being bored out of my mind, but in reality, I was keeping an eye on the entrance.

  Didn’t take long to spot them, two guys I hadn’t seen before, trying a bit too hard to look like regular shoppers. One was pretending to be interested in a tie that cost more than his shoes, and the other was eyeing a rack of dresses like he had any idea what he was doing.

  I couldn’t help but smirk.

  Fiancé must be begging for information on us.~

  To test the waters, I pushed off the counter and casually approached Ella, slipping a hand around her waist and leaning in close.

  She froze, her whole body tensing up as her cheeks turned a deeper shade of pink. “W-What are you—”

  I just gave her a casual smirk, loud enough for our eavesdroppers to hear. “You really think any of this stuff would look good on me? I’m more of a ‘fall apart after two washes’ kind of guy.”

  Her lips twitched, caught between a glare and a smile. “That’s painfully obvious. Though, I suppose I could help you find something... more presentable.”

  The guys at the entrance stiffened just a little, and I caught one of them fumbling to pull out his phone. Oh yeah, that’s definitely getting reported.

  I decided to double down, shifting my hand from her waist to her lower back and leaning down a bit more, our faces way too close for comfort. “You know, I’m starting to think you just wanted an excuse to see me try on clothes.”

  She stiffened even more, her cheeks now noticeably red, and she averted her gaze. “I-I... that’s not...”

  I couldn’t help but grin. “What’s wrong? Did I hit the mark?”

  She glared up at me, her lips pressed into a thin line, clearly trying to regain her composure. “You’re insufferable.”

  “I don't hear any denial.”

  She huffed, and for just a moment, I thought she might actually shove me away. Instead, she let out a quiet breath and muttered, “Just... stop making such a scene.”

  I didn’t miss the way her hand lightly brushed mine before she pulled back, like she was trying to ground herself.

  Interesting.

  The guys at the entrance were practically choking on their own confusion, probably wondering how their Untouchable Queen was letting herself get flustered by some random nobody. Good, let them chew on that.

  Actually, I liked that nickname. Untouchable Queen. Kind of fitting, considering she doesn’t seem all that eager to get married. As far as I can tell, she’s trying just as hard to dodge this marriage as I am to bait her fiancé.

  When she moved to another rack of clothes, I leaned back against the counter again, keeping my casual demeanor intact. My eyes subtly tracked the movements of the spies as they ducked out of the store, no doubt to report back to their boss.

  Ella turned to me, holding up a shirt that was way too fancy for my taste. “Try this one.”

  I raised an eyebrow. “I’m not putting that on. It’s got way too much cleavage exposed. I’m already showing enough skin by exposing my ankles like a whore.”

  She shot me a sharp look, clearly trying to regain some of her dignity. “Just humor me.”

  I sighed, grabbing the shirt and heading to the fitting room. As I slipped it on, I couldn’t help but think about how riled up the fiancé’s probably getting right about now. That little display in the store probably looked just a bit too cozy for his liking.

  Bite the bait already, rich boy.

  When I stepped out, Ella gave me a long, calculating look before clearing her throat. “It... doesn’t look terrible.”

  “That’s your way of saying it looks good, huh?”

  Her cheeks turned pink again. “Don’t push it.”

  I smirked and took the shirt off, handing it back to her. “Yeah, yeah. Don’t forget you were the one to choose the shirt, so that’s your own taste you’re insulting.”

  She just shrugged, feigning innocence as if she didn’t know what I was talking about.

  Typical.

  I fiddled with the shirt’s collar that cut down the middle nearly to my solar plexus. “You done yet, or are we hitting every store in the district?”

  She raised an eyebrow, clearly not ready to drop the act. “We’re just getting started.”

  Of course we are.

  I glanced at the price tag as I went to put it back, and almost choked. “This shirt costs more than my entire wardrobe. You trying to bankrupt me?”

  Ella gave me a look like I was speaking another language. “You don’t have to worry about the cost. Not if I’m around.”

  I couldn’t help but snort. “Oh? So you’re saying I’ve got a sugar mommy now? Bold move, Your Highness.”

  Her cheeks went red, but instead of snapping at me, she actually laughed. Not the little polite chuckle she usually gives, but a real, genuine laugh that softened her whole face.

  Huh. Didn’t think I’d hit that hard.

  She brushed it off and gave me a condescending smile. “Consider it charity. After all, I can’t be seen walking around with someone who looks homeless.”

  I grinned back. “Your words wound me. Besides, I’m pretty sure I’ve got the rugged, effortlessly handsome look down to a science. The Leo Standard is a true staple.”

  She rolled her eyes. “Effortless is right.”

  We moved on to the next store, and I kept up the act, sliding close, leaning in like I was telling her a secret, brushing her arm when I reached for something just to keep those lackeys at the entrance guessing. They were definitely getting twitchy, and it wouldn’t be long before they tried something.

  After a bit I took a seat on a bench next to Ella who was going through her purchases. She nodded after a bit then stood up, giving me a lazy wave. “I’m going to use the restroom. I'll be back.”

  I returned her a lazy wave. “Take your time. Not like I’m going anywhere.”

  As she walked off toward the restroom, I leaned back in my chair, letting my eyes drift lazily around the café. A few familiar faces from earlier still lingered outside, Window-Shopping Guy had moved to the opposite side of the street, while Roofing Guy was pretending to fix the same roof tile for the past thirty minutes.

  I resisted the urge to snicker. Those guys were terrible at this. But they weren’t what I was really worried about. I’d noticed it the moment we sat down—a faint, almost imperceptible pressure coming from somewhere higher up.

  I casually glanced around one more time before slipping out the back door of the café, ducking into an alley where no eyes could follow me. I made sure to keep my movements smooth, like I was just stretching my legs.

  Once I was sure I was out of sight, I leaned against the wall, crossing my arms and speaking up without looking anywhere specific.

  “Those two are a good distraction while you do all the surveillance,” I said, keeping my tone casual.

  Silence. Then, a low chuckle echoed from above.

  A figure dropped down from the roof, landing without a sound. I glanced up to see a guy only a couple of years older than me, sleek dark hair, cheshire cat grin, and a build that made it clear he didn’t skip training either. His posture was relaxed, but his eyes had a sharpness that reminded me of a predator.

  “Well, well,” he drawled, giving me a slow once-over. “Color me impressed. I didn’t think anyone would notice me, let alone someone like you.”

  I smirked. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

  He grinned wider, showing off that cheshire cat smile. “You’re not even awakened, and you still picked me out of the crowd. Gotta admit, that’s a neat trick.”

  I shrugged, keeping my stance loose. “You weren’t exactly subtle. The others are just window dressing. You’ve been up there since we sat down.”

  He chuckled again, clearly amused. “Damn, and here I thought I was being clever.”

  I pushed off the wall, giving him a lazy look. “So what’s the deal? I get those guys are meant to be the obvious ‘We’re watching you so be careful.’ But what I don’t understand is why they need you separated. Are you, perhaps, the backup?”

  He didn’t answer right away, just let his eyes trace my movements, like he was trying to figure me out. Finally, he crossed his arms and leaned against the opposite wall, looking almost relaxed.

  “You know I’m not just gonna tell you, right?” he said, his tone casual but sharp.

  I shrugged. “Hey, you never know. Worst you can say is no, right?”

  He let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. “Just who are you?”

  I gave him a lazy grin. “Pretty sure you already know that, since you’re the one stalking me. Seems like your boss forgot to mention that part.”

  His grin didn’t falter, but his eyes narrowed just a bit. “Oh, I know your name, Raiden Alaric. That’s not what I meant. I mean, who are you to be catching onto me like that? Most people don’t even know I’m there.”

  I cocked my head to the side, pretending to think. “Maybe you’re just not as good as you think you are.”

  That actually made him laugh, a deep, genuine sound that echoed off the alley walls. “Damn. You’ve got some nerve.”

  “Part of my charm,” I replied.

  He studied me again, like he was trying to peel away layers just by looking at me. “You’re different from the usual suspects. Don’t act like a bratty rich kid or a desperate wannabe. You’re... unpredictable.”

  I raised an eyebrow. “That supposed to be a compliment?”

  He shrugged, still grinning. “Take it however you want. Just means you’re not boring.”

  I rolled my shoulders, easing the tension in my neck. “So what’s your angle? You planning on jumping me here or just trying to satisfy your curiosity?”

  He shook his head, looking genuinely entertained. “Relax, I’m not here to fight. Just keeping tabs.”

  I scoffed. “Seems like overkill. You’ve got two guys playing decoys while you’re up there like a gargoyle. You that paranoid about little ol’ me?”

  His eyes glinted with something like intrigue. “Let’s just say the boss is more paranoid than usual. Can’t blame him, though. You’re moving in on his fiancée. Most guys don’t take that lightly.”

  I smirked. “Can’t move in on something that doesn’t want to be kept.”

  Nico’s grin faded slightly, and his tone dropped, becoming colder. “You really think this is a game, don’t you?”

  I didn’t drop my smirk. “Feels like one from where I’m standing.”

  He didn’t move, but his presence felt heavier somehow. “Let me make something clear. You’re poking at something way bigger than you realize. If you keep pushing, they’re going to stop playing nice. The boss doesn’t like loose ends. You keep circling around Ella, and they’ll take measures to make sure you get the message.”

  I raised an eyebrow, unbothered. “Measures, huh? Sounds like you’re threatening me.”

  He shook his head, his grin returning but colder this time. “Not a threat. Just a reality check. The boss has connections that run deeper than you know. You’re just some nobody with a big mouth and a talent for getting under people’s skin. Doesn’t matter how clever you think you are, crossing him is a mistake.”

  I shrugged, completely unfazed. “Maybe. But I’ve made worse mistakes. Pretty sure I can handle whatever he throws at me.”

  Nico clicked his tongue, almost pitying me. “You’re one cocky little bastard. Not sure if I should be impressed or annoyed.”

  I grinned. “You can be both. Multitasking is a useful skill.”

  He laughed again, but it wasn’t as lighthearted as before. “Alright, smartass. Do what you want. Just remember, you were warned. You’re not the first guy to think he’s untouchable. And you won’t be the last to get crushed for it.”

  With that, he pushed off the wall and looked up toward the roof. “Enjoy your little date, Rai. Just know that the next time we meet, it might not be as friendly.”

  He jumped up to the ledge and vanished as smoothly as he’d appeared. I let out a slow breath, my smirk still lingering despite the chill left behind.

  Not the first to think I’m untouchable, huh? That’s cute.

  I adjusted my shirt, making sure nothing looked out of place, then slipped back into the area we were resting at just as Ella returned from the restroom. She gave me a curious look.

  “You okay? You look... distracted,” she noted.

  I gave her a crooked smile. “Just stretching my legs. Thought I saw something weird.”

  She looked a little puzzled but didn’t push the issue. I let the silence settle, casually sipping my drink and pretending nothing had happened.

  In the back of my mind, though, I couldn’t help but feel that excitement buzzing through me again. Nico’s little warning wasn’t something I was going to take lightly, but it didn’t change anything. If anything, it just made me more curious about what kind of “measures” they thought would scare me off.

  Let them try.

  They certainly are trying.

  For someone who acts high and mighty, I’m starting to get it. Just a little. Why this little fucker is hated so much.

  This trust fund little shit burned the fucking Urban Gauntlet down. Canceled the rest of the matches. I didn’t even get to cash in my 1v1 pass.

  Now this has become personal.

  I leaned against the railing on the rooftop of the nearby mall, glaring down at the smoldering remains of the arena. Smoke billowed up in thick columns, and people were gathered around the barricades, some gawking, others shouting in protest. News vans were already rolling in, reporters trying to piece together what the hell just happened.

  I could still smell the burnt concrete and twisted metal, and all I could think about was how close I was to the next round. One more match. Just one, and I would’ve gotten to wreck someone in a 1v1. That pass was supposed to let me pick any of the top contestants and challenge them directly. It was supposed to be my moment to show off. And this prick had to go and ruin it.

  My jaw clenched as I tried to tamp down the anger. I could practically hear Chronos in my head telling me to calm the hell down and not act like a brat. But that was easier said than done when my blood was practically boiling.

  I pulled out my phone and shot a quick text to the coordinator.

  [Rai: Heard the gauntlet’s done. What the hell happened?]

  A few seconds later, my phone buzzed.

  [Coordinator: Fire started in the staging area. Spread too fast. Whole structure’s compromised. No way to continue the event. Police are investigating.]

  Yeah. Real convenient.

  I fired off another text.

  [Rai: Any idea who did it?]

  This time, it took a bit longer to get a response.

  [Coordinator: Officially? No clue. Unofficially? A few people mentioned some guys matching the description of Skyhaven grunts seen hanging around before the fire started. No proof, though.]

  I clenched my teeth, forcing myself to take a deep breath.

  Skyhaven. Of course. Because why wouldn’t that bastard take aim at something I was enjoying.

  Fine. You want to play this game? We’ll play this game.

  I took a slow breath, letting the anger simmer down into something more focused. He thought he could just burn down the gauntlet and wipe out my shot at the finals like it was nothing. Probably sitting back in his fancy mansion with a glass of aged whiskey, feeling real proud of himself.

  Actually what is the legal drinking age for elves? Sipping on a soda I guess?

  I let out a huff, running a hand through my hair as I straightened up. He’s not gonna get off easy for this one. Since he wants to act like a paranoid little tyrant, I’ll just make sure he regrets it. I might not have gotten to use my 1v1 pass, but I’ve got another way to mess with him.

  I tossed my phone onto my bed and crossed my arms, staring at my closet like it personally offended me. Ella texted earlier to set up the next “date,” and I wasn’t about to half-ass it. If I’m gonna push this game, I’m pushing it all the way.

  “Alright,” I muttered to myself, “gotta make this count.”

  My phone buzzed, and I picked it up to see Chronos had texted me again.

  [Chronos: I know that look. You’re planning something reckless, aren’t you?]

  [Rai: Reckless is a strong word. I’m just giving him a little payback.]

  [Chronos: Try not to burn down anything. That’s their shtick.]

  [Rai: No promises.]

  I smirked and tossed the phone back onto the bed. Then I went back to the closet, pulling out something a little more daring than usual, a dark button-up shirt with subtle patterns, sleeves rolled up just right, and a pair of slim-fit black jeans. Casual, but classy enough to make a statement. Topped it off with a leather bracelet and a simple chain necklace for that extra touch.

  A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

  Looking good. Maybe a little too good. But that’s the point.

  My phone buzzed again, and I checked the message.

  [Ella: I’ll meet you at the café from last time. 5 PM.]

  [Rai: Got it. See you there.]

  I gave myself a quick once-over in the mirror, making sure everything looked on point. Gotta admit, even I was impressed. If I’m gonna make her fiancé lose his mind, might as well look good doing it.

  I grabbed my jacket and headed out, keeping my usual relaxed pace as I made my way through town. Eyes followed me as I passed, nothing new there. But I knew some of them weren’t just curious onlookers. I was being watched. Again.

  One guy was pretending to fix his motorcycle, but I could tell from the way his gaze flicked toward me that he wasn’t doing much fixing. Another one across the street was messing with a camera, like he just happened to be a tourist in the middle of nowhere.

  Pathetic. You’d think they’d learn from the last time.

  I didn’t bother with them, no point giving them attention when they’re just the disposable distractions. Instead, I kept my focus on the meeting spot.

  Ella was already there when I walked in, sitting by the window again. This time, she’d swapped out her usual elegant look for something more relaxed—a fitted white top and light blue jeans that hugged her curves just enough to draw some attention.

  When she saw me, her lips curled into a faint smile, but there was a hint of surprise in her eyes as she took in my outfit.

  “Wow,” she murmured as I slid into the seat across from her. “You actually put in effort.”

  I grinned. “Tried to look presentable for the lady. Thought I’d mix it up.”

  She tilted her head, eyes tracing the subtle patterns on my shirt. “You clean up nicely.”

  “I get that a lot,” I replied, giving her a casual wink. “You’re looking good too. Gonna make me feel out of place here.”

  She chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “You’re ridiculous.”

  I leaned back, keeping my tone light. “It’s part of the charm. So, you pick this place because it’s comfy or because it’s easy to spot us from outside?”

  She hesitated for a second, caught off guard. “I... didn’t really think about that. I just like the atmosphere.”

  “Fair enough. Can’t complain about the coffee either.”

  As we talked, I kept my eyes drifting casually around the place, catching glimpses of a few familiar faces loitering nearby. Guess they weren’t even trying to be subtle this time. Fine by me.

  “So,” I said, leaning forward just a little, dropping my voice. “You know your fiancé’s guys are keeping tabs on you, right?”

  She frowned, clearly confused. “What? Why would they—”

  I shrugged. “Just a hunch. Saw a few of the same guys from last time hanging around. Can’t help but think they’re not just here for the lattes.”

  Ella glanced around, trying to be subtle about it, but I just chuckled. “Relax. They’re not gonna do anything. Just here to make sure I’m not ‘corrupting’ you or something.”

  She sighed, looking a little frustrated. “He’s always been paranoid, but this is getting ridiculous.”

  I gave her a playful smirk. “So what? Gonna tell him off for being a control freak?”

  She hesitated, her expression complicated. “It’s... not that simple.”

  I leaned back, still grinning. “No worries. Just means I’ll have to make it obvious that I’m worth more attention.”

  Ella gave me a look like she wasn’t sure whether to laugh or scold me. “You really are impossible.”

  “That’s the plan,” I shot back, giving her a lopsided smile.

  Let him keep watching. Let him keep thinking I’m just some reckless punk making moves on his fiancée. Because next time, I’ll make sure he sees that I’m not just a pest—

  I’m a threat.

  Ella Vel’areis

  I could feel my heart racing. No matter how hard I tried to steady it, every time he looked at me like that, it felt like my chest was ready to burst.

  We were sitting on a park bench under the shade of an old willow tree, sunlight filtering through the leaves in broken patterns across the ground. It was quiet, just the gentle hum of people passing by in the distance.

  Rai was sitting next to me, leaning back casually with his arms draped across the back of the bench like he owned it. A soft breeze tousled his hair, and he looked completely at ease, like he always did. Meanwhile, I was struggling just to keep from fidgeting.

  I took a breath, trying to focus on the conversation.

  Keep calm. You’re just talking.

  “So... you’re really planning on going to that tournament next month?” I asked, trying to sound neutral.

  He glanced at me, giving a lazy smile. “Yeah. The Gauntlet was cancelled, so I needed something to fill the void.”

  I rolled my eyes, but my lips curved up despite myself. “You’re insufferable.”

  “You like it,” he shot back, giving me a cocky grin.

  I swallowed down the flutter in my stomach and looked away, pretending to focus on a group of kids playing soccer nearby. “I didn’t say that.”

  His gaze didn’t leave me, and I could feel the weight of it even without looking back. “You didn’t deny it either.”

  My cheeks burned, and I bit my lip to keep from blurting out something embarrassing.

  Get it together, Ella. He’s just teasing.

  This had been happening a lot lately, ever since a few months ago, really. At first, it was just little things, standing closer than necessary, brushing his shoulder against mine as we walked. But it had gotten... worse. Or maybe better. I couldn’t decide.

  The first time was when he pulled me in by my waist. I almost lost all feeling in my knees. There was that one time, walking through the shopping district, when he casually draped his arm around my shoulders. I nearly fainted on the spot. He didn’t even seem to notice how rigid I’d gone, just kept talking like nothing was different. Meanwhile, my heart was practically pounding out of my chest.

  And now he was leaning toward me, his face getting just close enough to make my brain short-circuit. I froze as he reached out, his hand gently brushing my forehead.

  “Your face is red,” he commented, lips twitching in a smirk. “You feeling alright?”

  My brain stopped functioning for a good three seconds. I just stared at him, eyes wide and unblinking.

  “You’re being weird,” he said, tapping my forehead lightly with his finger. “You’re not getting a fever, are you?”

  “I—” My voice cracked, and I immediately wanted to die. I cleared my throat, forcing myself to look away. “I’m fine.”

  He didn’t move back, still leaning in just enough that I could feel his breath brushing against my cheek. I couldn’t help it, my eyes drifted to his lips.

  Stop. Looking.

  He noticed. Of course he noticed. His smirk widened, and he finally pulled back, leaving me feeling like I’d just run a marathon.

  “Jeez, relax. You’re flustered over nothing,” he teased.

  I clenched my hands together, trying to quell the embarrassing warmth crawling up my neck. “I am not flustered,” I shot back, but it sounded way too defensive.

  He just chuckled, like I’d proven his point. “Sure, sure. Whatever you say.”

  My heart wouldn’t stop racing, and I tried to steady my breathing. What is wrong with me lately? It hadn’t been this bad before, back when we were just pretending for the sake of appearances. But something shifted after that stupid fire incident with the gauntlet. Or rather once he mentioned that we were being watched…

  He’d become more... touchy. Assertive. He never used to get so close, and it definitely wasn’t normal for him to wrap an arm around me without a second thought. It was like he’d stopped caring whether people saw us or not, like he wasn’t even thinking about what it looked like.

  I on the other hand… I’d almost passed out when he pressed his shoulder against mine while we were walking, leaning just enough that our hands brushed. He didn’t even react. Didn’t seem to think twice about it.

  Was he just... comfortable around me? Taking advantage of the situation because he knew I wouldn’t protest?

  Or was it—No. I shouldn’t think like that.

  Still there was that tiny, persistent thought that wouldn't leave me alone. Did he... like me? Actually like me? Was this just his way of showing it, and I was too dense to pick up on it? Or was I just projecting because I couldn’t control my stupid, racing heart every time he touched me?

  I glanced at him out of the corner of my eye. He was sitting there, relaxed and confident as always, like the world couldn’t touch him. His casual arrogance was almost infuriating… almost.

  It would be so much easier if he just... said something, anything. But no, instead, he just kept making me feel like a total idiot without even trying.

  I bit the inside of my cheek, trying to gather my thoughts, when he suddenly shifted, draping his arm across the back of the bench again, closer this time. I froze, my brain scrambling to figure out how to act normal when he was right there.

  “What’s got you so tense today?” he asked, his tone a little too amused for my liking.

  “Nothing,” I replied, too quickly.

  He raised an eyebrow. “Nothing, huh? You’ve been acting weird for a while now. Starting to wonder if I broke you or something.”

  I glared at him, ignoring the way my pulse spiked. “I’m perfectly fine. Stop assuming things.”

  He just laughed, leaning his head back and letting his eyes close, like he didn’t have a single care in the world. I let out a slow breath, trying to calm myself down.

  Get it together, Ella.

  Whether he’s doing this on purpose or just messing with me for fun, I can’t let him see me crack. But no matter how hard I tried to convince myself it was just his usual teasing, I couldn’t help but wonder... did he really mean it? Or was I just overthinking everything?

  One thing was clear, I needed to figure out what he was playing at before I completely lost my mind.

  Raiden Alaric

  Can I leave yet?

  I’ve been watching these guys take pictures and everything. I just don’t understand what the damn hold-up is. How many angles do they need? It’s not like we’re doing anything special, just sitting around and talking. Are they planning to make a collage or something?

  I leaned back against the park bench, eyes drifting over to where one of the idiots was pretending to read a newspaper. At least the guy across the pond had the decency to pretend to be birdwatching.

  I'm starting to be genuinely impressed with how much variety he's been pushing out for these little spies.

  I’ve been pushing it a lot just by getting closer to her and making her flustered, but I just need a little more... something. I was almost there, almost at the point where even that paranoid prick couldn’t convince himself that nothing was going on between us. Just one more push.

  Ella was next to me, fidgeting with the hem of her blouse and sneaking glances my way when she thought I wasn’t looking. Cute. But it’s not like I could just go for it with all these eyes glued to us. It had to look... accidental. Natural. Authentic.

  Yeah… authentic.

  I tapped my fingers against the bench, running scenarios through my head. I couldn’t just go for a casual kiss or something, that would feel forced and obvious. Nah, it had to be something believable. Something that would make those creeps hit the camera button before they even thought about it.

  That’s when I noticed it, a guy off to the side, half hidden behind a bush, fumbling with his camera. The way he kept adjusting the lens made it obvious he was waiting for a good shot. I smirked.

  Perfect.

  I stood up, stretching my arms over my head. Ella glanced up at me, looking mildly confused. “What are you doing?”

  “Getting some circulation going,” I replied, giving her a lazy grin. “Come on. Let’s walk.”

  She hesitated but then nodded, standing up with that same cautious look she always had when I was up to something. I led her down the path toward a big oak tree, making sure to walk slowly enough that she wouldn’t suspect anything.

  When we got closer to the tree, I noticed the guy repositioning his camera, clearly anticipating something good. Showtime.

  I slowed down just enough to maneuver behind Ella and gave her heel a little nudge with my foot. Not enough to hurt, just enough to throw her balance off.

  As expected, she stumbled forward, eyes widening in surprise. Before she could hit the ground, I stepped forward, catching her in one smooth motion. Except I didn’t just catch her, I made sure to overbalance, pulling us both down to the grass with me landing on top of her.

  Oh no, what an unfortunate accident.

  I braced my hands on either side of her head to avoid squishing her, making sure to look just a little bit startled, like it hadn’t been entirely planned. Ella’s face was bright red, ears and all, and her mouth opened and closed like she was trying to remember how to form words.

  She just stared up at me, and I stared right back, doing my best to look convincingly flustered. I could hear the click click click of the camera going off, and I knew I’d nailed it.

  Ella finally managed to get her voice working again, stammering out something that vaguely sounded like, “W-what... how...?”

  I grinned down at her, leaning just a little closer for effect. “You okay? Didn’t twist your ankle or anything, did you?”

  She just blinked up at me, clearly struggling to process the situation. If I wasn’t so focused on playing the part, I might’ve actually enjoyed how ridiculously cute she looked right now.

  “I-I’m fine,” she mumbled, still not making eye contact.

  I shifted my weight just a little, pretending to push myself up, but made sure to keep one hand planted beside her, keeping that almost-too-close distance. Her hands hesitantly came up to my chest, as if trying to push me back but not quite managing the courage to actually do it.

  Click click click.

  Yes, keep it going. Let him know that he needs to take things further.

  Finally, I let out a low chuckle and moved off of her, reaching down to help her up. “Gotta be more careful where you’re walking. You could have gotten hurt.”

  She glared at me, trying to muster up some of that usual haughty confidence, but it was ruined by how red her face still was. “I didn’t—It wasn’t my fault!”

  I just gave her a lazy shrug, brushing some dirt off my clothes. “Sure. Next time, just watch your step.”

  She muttered something under her breath, probably cursing me to some elven hell or whatever. I couldn’t help but chuckle as we kept walking, keeping an eye out for any of the other wannabe spies that might’ve been snapping pics.

  By the time we got to the edge of the park, I knew it was a wrap. If that didn’t get back to her fiancé with a little extra spice added in, then these guys were more incompetent than I gave them credit for.

  Mission accomplished. Now we wait.

  Illya Vel’aeris

  The thud of my boots echoed through the training hall, steady, rhythmic, and the only sound I could tolerate right now.

  I spun the spear in my hands once, twice, then launched into another set of forms. Fluid, fast, perfect—until I missed a single beat.

  My grip faltered for a split second. That was all it took.

  I exhaled sharply, resetting. Again.

  Step, pivot, thrust—

  Block, rotate, strike—

  Too slow. Too stiff. Too much thinking.

  I grit my teeth and pulled back, feeling the edge of my patience snap. My aura surged around me, crawling up my arms like a storm under my skin.

  "Ugh—!"

  With a sharp growl, I hurled the spear with everything I had.

  The weapon screamed through the air, coated in pure force, my aura wrapping around it like a streak of lightning. It slammed into the far wall with a sound like a thunderclap.

  The impact didn’t stop there.

  The wall shimmered for a split second as the embedded barrier tried to absorb the blow, but it was too much. The defense cracked down the center with a spiderweb of fractures.

  Then came the shockwave.

  The pressure exploded outward like a cannon blast. Equipment racks were launched across the room. Sparring dummies went flying like ragdolls, crashing into walls and pillars. The stone beneath my feet splintered, thick cracks erupting along the path the spear had carved.

  I stood at the center of it all, chest heaving, sweat dripping down my temple.

  Silence followed, dense and absolute.

  I stared at the ruined far wall. The spear still vibrated slightly, embedded halfway into reinforced stone, the barrier still flickering from the strain.

  “…Damn it,” I muttered.

  This wasn’t just frustration. This was me. Out of rhythm. Out of control.

  My hand twitched, the phantom sensation of that one misstep still lingering in my fingers. I shouldn’t have messed that up. I’ve done that form a thousand times. It should’ve been perfect. It had to be.

  I took a slow breath, trying to calm the chaos inside me. My aura simmered down, but I could still feel the storm lingering just beneath the surface.

  Training helped. Focus helped. But neither was working right now.

  I didn’t throw the spear at the wall. I threw it at a feeling I couldn’t put into words.

  Something was off.

  “You’ve been frustrated for weeks now.”

  I turned my head, exhaling slowly. áine stood at the far end of the training hall, calm as ever. Her hands were folded neatly behind her back, but her eyes were sharper than usual, analyzing, not judging.

  “You felt that from all the way down the corridor?” I asked dryly.

  “I felt you,” she said, stepping closer. “Your aura's been erratic for days. Angry. Unfocused. It flares in spikes when you train, then collapses in on itself. It’s not just frustration.”

  I looked back at the wall. The barrier was still flickering, struggling to repair itself around the embedded spear. The training hall looked like a battlefield, splintered ground, overturned dummies, scattered weapons.

  áine’s voice softened, but not with pity. “Your control’s slipping.”

  I scoffed under my breath. “No. My restraint is.”

  “You’re losing patience.”

  “Wouldn’t you?” I stood up slowly, brushing my hair out of my face. “Every time I start to feel like myself again, I hit the ceiling. And not just any ceiling, a designed one.”

  áine’s gaze dipped for a moment. “Your seal is doing its job.”

  “Exactly,” I snapped. “That’s the problem.”

  The trial had begun two months ago. Part of our people’s tradition, a rite of refinement. After advancing to a new rank, every High Elf is bound by sealing sigils etched into their skin. The ritual weakens the body, not into helplessness, but into deliberate limitation. It’s meant to force us to refine, to hone, to master every fiber of strength before being allowed to wield it fully.

  Progress through adversity. Perfection through restraint. That was the doctrine.

  áine was my assigned Watcher, the one who judged if I was worthy of removing the seal.

  “I can barely access half of what this body is supposed to be capable of,” I growled, gesturing to the sigils faintly glowing across my arms. “And every time I face someone outside this system, I get reminded that not everyone’s playing by the same rules.”

  She met my eyes. “You’re not supposed to be playing at all. This is your trial.”

  I wanted to scream. “Do you see how that sounds? I’m supposed to limit myself for growth while the rest of the world moves on without a leash. And now there’s him.”

  “Raiden,” áine said flatly.

  I said nothing. I didn’t have to.

  She walked over slowly, stopping just a few steps away. “You’ve done well with the restraint. But your aura…” Her hand lifted, glowing faintly as she passed it near my chest, then over my shoulder. “It’s volatile. Tight. You’re resisting the seal subconsciously.”

  “Because I’m tired of hiding what I am,” I muttered.

  “You’re not hiding. You’re tempering.”

  “Then why does it feel like I’m the only one doing it?”

  áine was silent for a moment. Then: “Because you were raised to carry the burden of tradition. And Raiden wasn’t.”

  My throat tightened.

  I turned away from her, staring at the cracked wall. “I’m not afraid of him. I just… I wasn’t ready to be challenged like that.”

  áine’s voice was calm. “He disrupted your balance.”

  “He made me feel like I was less. Even sealed, I should have outclassed him.”

  “And maybe you did. But it doesn’t matter, does it? Because it didn’t feel like you won.”

  I clenched my fists. “No.”

  “You’re afraid he’ll keep growing,” she continued, “and leave you behind before your trial ends.”

  Silence.

  “…Yes.”

  áine walked a slow circle around me, inspecting the sigils with that healer’s precision. “You’re nearing the end. The sigils are dimmer than they were. Your body’s almost realigned. But the seal won’t lift until you accept this part of the process—not fight it.”

  “I don’t want to accept it,” I said through gritted teeth. “I want to rip the damn thing off.”

  “Then you’ll remain just as unstable as the wall you broke.”

  I bit back the retort.

  áine moved back to stand in front of me, her tone shifting. “You want to surpass him? Good. Use it. Let that fire forge your discipline. But understand this—power given without understanding is nothing but noise. And right now?”

  She glanced back at the devastated hall, “You’re making a lot of noise.”

  I looked down at the sigils etched across my forearms. Their glow had receded, pulsing low like a heartbeat waiting for permission to rise. After she lowered her hand the glow faded as if they were never there.

  She was right and I hated that. áine started to turn away, as if the conversation was done, but I wasn’t finished.

  “There’s something else,” I said quietly.

  She paused, and waited.

  I hesitated. Saying it out loud felt... wrong. Like betrayal. But silence was eating me alive.

  “I’m trying not to blame it on... us. On what we are. But I think it’s part of the reason I can’t stop thinking about him.”

  áine looked back at me, patient and quiet, but sharp enough to cut me open without lifting a blade.

  “We’re taught we’re superior,” I said. “From the day we can walk, we’re told we’re stronger, more graceful, more gifted, more evolved. It’s not even pride—it’s biology. Doctrine. Culture. It’s everything.”

  I let out a bitter laugh. “And then he comes along. A human with no training in our ways. No refinement. He shouldn’t even be on the same playing field as me.”

  “But he is,” áine said softly.

  “Yes,” I whispered. “And worse—he thrives there.”

  My hands trembled again, not from weakness… but from the dissonance.

  “Every part of me knows it shouldn’t bother me,” I continued. “But it does. It does, because there’s this part of me—this horrible, arrogant part—that can’t accept it. That refuses to believe someone like him could be my equal. Let alone my better.”

  áine said nothing. Just listened. That was worse somehow.

  “I don’t want to think like that,” I admitted, barely above a whisper. “I hate it. I hate that it’s in me at all. But I see him improving, see him adapting faster than I ever did, and I start to wonder if I’m chasing someone who’s already lapping me. And it makes me angry. Not at him—”

  I looked down. “At me.”

  Silence wrapped around us like a noose.

  áine stepped forward, her voice softer now. “You’re not alone in this struggle, Illya. Every High Elf who’s ever walked a battlefield outside our borders has faced that same pain—when superiority becomes insecurity.”

  I swallowed hard.

  She knelt in front of me, meeting me eye to eye. “The difference is, you recognize it. You’re not feeding it—you’re fighting it. That matters more than you know.”

  I didn’t know what to say to that. So I said the truth, “…I just don’t want to be left behind.”

  áine’s smile was faint, but real. “Then don’t be.”

  áine rose to her feet, brushing invisible dust from her robes. “You’ve said more in this conversation than you have in three months. That’s progress.”

  I gave her a dry look. “That’s because most days, I’m busy pretending not to implode.”

  She turned toward the exit, steps light but unhurried. “Mm. I won’t. Just try not to tear the next training hall in half. The estate doesn’t have infinite reinforced walls.”

  I almost smiled. But then she paused in the doorway, her tone shifting—calm, but deliberate.

  “One more thing,” she said, tone calm, but that particular calm she only used when she was about to drop something serious.

  I looked up again, immediately wary.

  “It’s about your sister.”

  My heart skipped. “Ella?”

  áine nodded. “Her fiancé’s been stirring again. The Brightmoor’s fifth son.”

  I scowled. “Of course he has. What’s he doing?”

  “Nothing direct—yet. But subtle pressure’s being applied. Informants shifting. Resources reallocating. The kind of moves you make when you're preparing to escalate.”

  “To who?”

  She met my gaze. “Raiden.”

  I clenched my jaw. “So he’s making a move on him now?”

  áine exhaled. “He's jealous. Controlling. He’s always been territorial over things he wants or can’t easily have. And with her spending more time around Raiden…”

  “Let me guess,” I said, bitter. “He’s convinced there’s something going on.”

  “He’s not convinced,” áine replied. “He assumes it. There’s a difference. And the scary part is—no one can prove Raiden’s provoking him.”

  I raised an eyebrow. “But they think he is.”

  She gave a slight, humorless smile. “He’s too calm. Too unbothered. And the more composed Raiden looks, the more it grates on your cousin’s nerves. So while the official stance is ‘we hope he’s not provoking the Brightmoor’s 5th,’ no one actually believes that.”

  Because it’s Raiden. Of course he’s provoking him.

  “And you?” I asked carefully. “Are you worried for him?”

  áine paused, then shook her head slowly. “No. I’m not particularly worried about Raiden.”

  That surprised me. Genuinely. “...Then who are you worried about?”

  She looked at me, eyes sharp, voice calm. “I’m worried about who might be backing him.”

  I stared at her.

  She continued. “If your cousin tries to make an example out of him—and Raiden really is alone—then nothing happens. The problem vanishes quietly.”

  A beat passed.

  “But if he’s not alone,” she said softly, “if someone powerful is watching from the shadows... and that someone decides to retaliate?”

  She turned to leave, her voice drifting over her shoulder.

  “Then the Brightmoors won’t know what hit them.”

  And just like that, she was gone. Leaving me alone in the wreckage of the training hall. And for the first time since meeting Raiden Alaric…

  I wasn’t sure who the real threat in this story was anymore.

  Discord!